What causes inexplicable muscle pain throughout the body

The inexplicable pain in various muscles of the body may be related to factors such as excessive fatigue, electrolyte imbalance, fibromyalgia syndrome, rheumatic polymathic pain, viral infections, etc. Muscle pain usually manifests as soreness, stiffness, or tenderness, and in severe cases may affect daily activities.

1. Excessive fatigue

Intense exercise or prolonged fixed posture may lead to muscle lactate accumulation or minor damage, causing widespread soreness. Commonly seen after exercise or physical labor, usually relieved after rest. Suggest promoting blood circulation through hot compress and mild stretching to avoid repetitive high-intensity activities in the short term.

2. Electrolyte imbalance

Electrolyte disorders such as low potassium and low magnesium can affect normal muscle contraction function, manifested as fatigue accompanied by diffuse pain. People with long-term imbalanced diet, diarrhea, or taking diuretics are prone to developing the condition. Moderate supplementation of potassium and magnesium rich foods such as bananas and dark green vegetables is recommended. In severe cases, medical attention should be sought to test electrolyte levels.

3. Fibromyalgia syndrome

is a chronic pain disorder characterized by symmetrical muscle tenderness points and fatigue, often accompanied by sleep disorders. The cause may be related to central nervous system sensitization, and the diagnosis should exclude other diseases. The treatment includes low-intensity aerobic exercise, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and the use of medications such as pregabalin as prescribed.

4. Rheumatic polymathic pain

is more common in people over 50 years old, manifested as morning stiffness and pain in the shoulder, neck, and pelvic girdle muscles, which may be related to immune abnormalities. Blood tests show an increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Follow medical advice to use low-dose corticosteroids such as prednisone, while monitoring for side effects such as osteoporosis.

5. Viral Infection

Viral infections such as influenza and dengue fever often cause muscle soreness throughout the body, accompanied by fever and fatigue. Viral toxin stimulation or immune response leading to muscle cell inflammation is the main cause. The course of illness is usually self limiting, and it is recommended to rest in bed and replenish fluids. If necessary, acetaminophen can be used to alleviate symptoms.

Long term unexplained muscle pain requires screening for potential issues such as thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune diseases. Daily attention should be paid to maintaining moderate exercise to enhance muscle endurance, and warm-up and relaxation should be done before and after exercise. Increase the intake of high-quality protein and vitamin D in the diet, and avoid prolonged exposure to air conditioning that can cause muscle coldness. If the pain persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, muscle weakness, etc., it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly at the rheumatology and immunology department or neurology department.